When does a hotel become a ‘luxury hotel’? Is it how many swimming pools a resort boasts or the number of Michelin star restaurants on offer?
We decided to put the question out there to the masses to find out just what qualifies as a luxury hotel.
By far the most essential must-have for any self-proclaimed luxury hotel is an opulent spa. Over a quarter of British holidaymakers cited spa facilities as their main criteria when looking for lavish accommodation.
Looking at the who’s who of luxury hotels, it’s clear to see that most 5* accommodation boasts a wealth of spa facilities.
Dubai’s iconic Atlantis, The Palm resort is the perfect example, with its extravagant ShuiQui Spa and Fitness centre. Saunas, steam rooms and an extensive list of beauty treatments are just some of what you’ll find at this indulgent haven.
When thinking about luxury holidays, we imagine most holidaymakers dream about being waited on hand and foot. For a fifth of holidaymakers who put an all-inclusive package deal at the top of their wish list, this is exactly the case.
Many luxury hotel chains offer the world when it comes to pre-paid package deals, with complimentary drinks, exclusive benefits and delicious snacks to enjoy by the pool.
Situated on Ras Al Khaimah’s golden coastline, the magnificent Rixos Bab Al Bahr is the perfect place to let your hair down. Let these experienced hoteliers take care of your every need, while you enjoy a relaxing holiday away from all the hustle and bustle.
If there’s one thing that sets luxury hotels apart from the competition, it’s a private beach. That’s according to the 20% of the 1,500 sun worshipping Brits who answered our survey.
Private beaches often mean less crowds and a range of first-rate facilities that are exclusive to guests staying at the hotel, including water sports, beach bars and sunbeds.
The trend clearly isn’t lost on the many luxury hotels in Dubai, including the grand Waldorf Astoria Dubai, Palm Jumeirah. The hotel sits on the sought-after Palm Jumeirah crescent and occupies its own private stretch of Persian Gulf facing coastline.
But it’s not just about having a private beach. For some, the world’s most luxury hotel brands need to provide a butler service to be deemed worthy.
10% of those questioned want nothing more than to have their every wish fulfilled by hotel staff. Most butler services can arrange, plan and book activities for you and your fellow guests, as well as tables at restaurants and travel.
Think of a butler as your own personal concierge service. You’ll find this type of service at most 5* luxury Middle East hotels, including Dubai’s JA Palm Tree Court and Ras Al Khaimah’s Doubletree by Hilton Resort and Spa.
A dream break isn’t just about holidaying like a celebrity; it’s about travelling like one too. Our questionnaire revealed that 5% of holidaymakers place a great deal of importance on a private chauffeur service.
Many of the world’s luxury hotel brands offer a chauffeur or taxi service for both holidaymakers and business travellers.
For more information on all of our luxury holidays to the Middle East, or for a wide selection of luxury hotels, click here. Alternatively, check out our guide to Dubai and Fujairah holidays .
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